S&W 500---any owners with opinions?

I just bought two of these beasts and am waiting for them to be delivered. One's the 8 incher and the other is the 4 inch. Both have compensators.

I bought a few boxes of Hornady's red tip rounds and am wondering from owners what they think about theirs. Recoil, fun to shoot, accuracy or anything else you can fill me in.

I will scope the big one and carry the 4 incher while hunting Elk as my bear, alien, big footm monster go to gun.

Thanks

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clarence222

September 17, 2008, 11:38 PM

I've had the 8" model fr about 2 years and love it. There was a company that was selling some 700 grain load for it. I bought some of those and they will hurt you. However the 400 and 500 grain loads aren't all that bad. I haven't shot mine a lot but it is fun to shoot. I also own a 454 Casull and any time I shoot it I have to wonder, who shot the 454 and decided that they needed something bigger. I'd certainly like to meet him,

19-3Ben

September 17, 2008, 11:40 PM

heh. for as many owners that you find with opinions, you'll find that the ones who don't own one have twice as many opinions!!!

benderx4

September 18, 2008, 12:26 AM

I don't have one of these beasts, nor have I ever shot one. But there is a big dude that brings his 460 into the range just about everytime I'm there. He has offered to let me shoot the thing, and perhaps some day I'll have the courage, but I've declined up to this point. It is incredibly loud, the muzzle flash is blinding, and I'm told that given an improper grip, the escape gases can take part of your thumb off. All that being said, if I were a hunter, and I hunted in bear country, I wouldn't be caught without one. Good luck!

BroughtEnoughGun

September 18, 2008, 01:44 AM

I own the 8 3/8" comp model and its very manageable. I usually shoot anywhere between 20-40 rounds a session. I guess I can say this guns not for everybody because it is real loud and does have a good bit of recoil. I have 2 .454's a Ruger Alaskan and a Freedom Arms M83 w/7.5" bbl and the Leupold VX-III mounted on it with the SSK T'SOB mount and 3 rings and between the 3 guns the recoil and muzzle blast all feels the same to me, but thats just me. point is pretty much anything .454 or bigger you cant really tell the difference and theyre not all that bad or otherwise people wouldnt keep them or shoot them. just make sure to keep a good stance and flow with the recoil.

Big Boomer

September 18, 2008, 02:52 AM

Lest not forget the BFR's :) this one broke my hand. Substantially more recoil than than the S&W's

I've shot mine exactly 7 times before I cried...It now has new grips but haven't tried them out yet, along with a pair of shooting gloves. Took about 6 months for my hands to finally heal.

I have been shooting the 500 Mag since it hit the market. Well over 5 years now.
I have owned 2 of the 8 3/8 inch models, a 10.5 inch model and a 4 inch model. I also have one in a 6 inch custom BFR. Currently I own 3 500 Mags, a 4 inch S&W a 6 inch BFR and a 10.5 inch OTT Encore.

The recoil can be more than a handful to actually very manageable. I have seen a few people gravitate to the large bullets for the 500 Mag, I am guilty as well, but the truth be known, a 370 to 440 gr. bullet is the best weight for the 500 Mags and what I use 98% of time. You can kill anything on the planet with a 440 gr. bullet form the 500 Mag. There is no real need for any of the large bullets. JMHO

I have taken deer, bear and hogs with my 500 Mag. All have been one shot kills. I estimate I have shot will over 7000 rounds of 500 mag, yes reloading is the way to go with the 500 Mag.
I use hard cast bullets only, in my opinion they are the best.

My S&W 4 inch 500 Mag has a custom end cap installed, I did not like the extra flash or noise of the compensator. The recoil in my opinion is the same, but the gun has more muzzle rise because of the end cap. But I still can get a second shot of very quick.

My suggestion to you is, reload, keep the loads in a manageable range and stick to the 370 to 440 gr. bullet range. Then you will see how fun the 500 mag can be.

Bigger is Better

September 18, 2008, 09:30 AM

I've shot .500 S&W only two times, and only in single-shot Tanfoglio and Contender (the only two legal in Italy for the S&W fifty caliber): in both guns the shot has been a great emotion, that I'd like to feel with revolver too, but at the moment we can't. I've shot 440 grs Corbon with the Raptor and the shot was not so terrible and the recoil not too violent (it's an 89 oz. weight gun), while with the Contender the 440 grs Magtech had really hurt us (the owner of the gun and me): monstrous.
Now I'm searching for make .500 S&W legal in Italy, at least in the BFR, 'cause I already know that a double action gun in this caliber could never be legal in my country. I'm sure of this!
P.S. However I think that a cartridge like .50 Smith is more suitable and safe in a gun like SA BFR than in DA Smith and Wesson, but this is only a personal opinion.

Redhawk1

September 18, 2008, 09:37 AM

How it the 50 Cal more suitable and safe in a gun like SA BFR than in DA Smith and Wesson????

Bigger is Better

September 18, 2008, 11:33 AM

Sorry guys if my english don't let me explain what I want to say. I mean that in my opinion the structure of the BFR frame is stronger than S&W X-Frame.
I hope this time you can understand me

Loosedhorse

September 18, 2008, 11:52 AM

Recoil with the 275 gr Barnes is MILD, like a light .44 mag (if that's mild). With the 440 gr full-throttles, even this heavy revolver tries to put its front sight in your forehead, so be careful--noticeably above .475 Linebaugh. I'm still waiting to try out the 500-grainers.

Accuracy is quite good, but shooting off-hand is a bear because of the barrel weight. Using sticks or a branch to support is MUCH better.

I have had friends try it out, and all shot accurately; only one didn't want a second shot. Soon to christen it on hog hunt.

Redhawk1

September 18, 2008, 02:31 PM

Sorry guys if my english don't let me explain what I want to say. I mean that in my opinion the structure of the BFR frame is stronger than S&W X-Frame.
I hope this time you can understand me

I don't see that at all, the X-frame is a totally different beast within itself.
I own both and I don't see one having the advantage over the other as far as strength. JMHO

Bigger is Better

September 18, 2008, 03:12 PM

Without doubt you have more experience than me on this way, considering that in Italy is never arrived neither one piece of .500 S&W revolvers.
But I've shot with the .460 Hunter, and his frame is exploded in his owner's hands after about a cylinder of .460 soft loads. And like this story I've heard a lot more others on behalf of friends of mine about .460 and .500 S&W revolvers "explosions". This is my experience.

CYANIDEGENOCIDE

September 18, 2008, 03:34 PM

I have one with the 4" barrel. Got it for easy carry in bear country, haven't used it for such as of yet. I excepted recoil to be much worse (I use a tight grip and lock my elbows, then the gun just goes up over my head not in my head). I think the 440 gr rounds are easier on the eyes and ears than the 275's and 350's.
I never noticed until I saw someone else with one but you can see the pressure wave move down range in all the little piece of paper and unburned powder on the floor, and in the hanging paper targets if they are within 30 feet.

Friendly, Don't Fire!

September 18, 2008, 03:40 PM

I have the 4" model and have put 200-300 rounds through it.

I had purchased quite a bit of factory ammo and worked up a load for it using Barnes XPB 275g bullets. 5 shots at 50 yards, are in a 1.5" group with one "flyer" out at 3" using open Millett sights (I replaced the rear factory sight with a Millett - Target .360" height, all black blade).
http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/3816/500magwh9.jpg
Two Barnes 275g XPB's after going through 30" of water.
Those six pedals have almost razor-sharp edges and points!

As for recoil, the worst load I shot was a factory load 440g solid lead. That load felt like it was going to break my wrists. No other ammo has been as snappy as those loads. The 440 grain solid lead bullet went clear through a solid wood stump (approximately 16" wood). One bullet I recovered just protruding from the opposite side was perfectly intact. The hard lead would be excellent where a lot of penetration is necessary, such as in elephant, rhino, or other dangerous large game.

I am hunting black bear now and will pop a coyote if I should see one. Yesterday I took out a woodchuck with it. I snuck up on it to about 15 yards, slowly knelt down, rested my left arm on my left knee and touched it off (SA). It basically turned it inside-out with about half of it missing which went somewhere that I couldn't find (probably vaporized).

The Hogue grip from the factory is perfect. I bought a Pachmayr grip and put it on and didn't even bother firing the gun. The Pachmayr was so sloppy and loose feeling, compared to the factory Hogue, and the Pachmayr also covered some of the S&W 500 etched lettering on the side which I didn't like, so Pachmayr (actually MidwayUSA) took the grip back without any questions. I do like Pachmayr on certain guns, but not on this one.

I've found that the front compensator loosens and S&W had to send me a new black allen-type screw holder (which locks the compensator on tight). I had it tight, then found that it had loosened on its own. After shooting, the vibration of the compensator caused some wear of the black screw arrangement, so the compensator couldn't tighten after that. When I got the new black screw, I used blue locktite on it to hold it secure as I have no reason to use the other one that comes with the gun made for lead bullets. After using locktite on it, it hasn't been a problem.

I'm used to shooting large magnums. I had a couple of 44's and when the 454 Casull came out had one of them which I loaded for. I don't mind the recoil. I always use electronic earmuffs (Pro-Ear) so I can hear what's going on around me yet still protect my hearing.

I purchased the Gene Desantis leather holster from the S&W web site which is a work of art and fits the gun perfectly. It's also adjustible with screws for tension holding the gun in place along with the leather tang with positive snap. It's worth every penny (or, should I say, DOLLAR!). If you get this holster, be sure to carefully remove the four black screws and apply Locktite to the threads and re-assemble the screws, as I found the screws a bit loose and didn't want to lose one (or more) while hunting.

There is a bit of blow-by with certain loads (to bystanders). I called S&W technical department and they told me that is normal.

Some of the loads I loaded actually feel like you have a campfire in front of you for a second or so after you shoot it. Of course, the ball of fire is about as large as a small car when using loads with ball powder.

I noticed the gun screws were loosening, so I put maximum strength Locktite on ALL SCREWS!

Do I like it? I don't like it, I LOVE IT!
When I had the 454 Casull (10" barrel), I had wished then that I had the shorter-barreled version. Now, I finally have what I've wanted for over 20 years!

If someone is against the big boomers, then that is their problem. I have no problem with smaller calibers as I, myself happen to own a .22 Ruger Mark II stainless Target Pistol - another gun that I love!

Bigger is Better

September 18, 2008, 04:03 PM

...I'm used to shooting large magnums. I had a couple of 44's and when the 454 Casull came out had one of them which I loaded for...

Me too: I love large magnums, and I love .454 Casull. I've had a SRH in .454, that I've sold :banghead: because, among many other things, his shots (or better the fire coming out from the muzzle) "annoy" the neightbours on the firing line, who don't bear even his "kaboom"... As***les! :cuss:
Now I've the .480 SRH, that seems, instead, create no problems to the other people :rolleyes:

Bitmap

September 18, 2008, 07:18 PM

I love the M500. For me it is much more comfortable than a .454 SRH to shoot, but it is a lot bigger and heavier to carry for hunting. The recoil seems slower than the .454 - when shooting the .454 I stop shooting because my palms start protesting, when I shoot the .500 I stop when my forearms and wrists get tired.

Accuracy is great.

Lots of fun if you like putting big holes in things but it is tough on earth berm backstops.

I wouldn't plan on long sessions with it, at least not at first. For me 40 rounds at a time is reasonable.

MikeWSC

September 18, 2008, 11:56 PM

Have had the 8 3/8" barrel for a few years and haven't been sorry. Its accurate and a lot of fun to shoot. Have only been loading the 350 XTP's but picked up some 500 XTP's. The Barnes 275's really look awsome! Deadly on deer and plan on taking it out west for elk next year.

Friendly, Don't Fire!

September 19, 2008, 08:08 PM

From what I've read in many locations, including the Barnes site and in the Barnes Reloading Manual, figure the bullet weight that you would typically use for the size and type of game being hunted, then back down to the next lightest bullet if you are going for the X bullet. That's why I've selected the 275g for black bear and deer hunting.

The reasoning behind this is that the X pedals open up and the velocity and weight of the bullet along with those opened-up pedals result in major internal damage and hydraulic shock damage.

Redhawk1

September 21, 2008, 07:17 PM

Without doubt you have more experience than me on this way, considering that in Italy is never arrived neither one piece of .500 S&W revolvers.
But I've shot with the .460 Hunter, and his frame is exploded in his owner's hands after about a cylinder of .460 soft loads. And like this story I've heard a lot more others on behalf of friends of mine about .460 and .500 S&W revolvers "explosions". This is my experience.

I think your friend's are blowing smoke up your back side.

I know a number of people with the 460 and 500 Mags, and I still have not seen one blown up except one that was shown on line that was double loaded with tight group powder. That was loader error not a problem with the gun, that can happen to any gun out there that is loaded improperly.

I also have the S&W 460 Mag with about 3000 rounds down the tube.

Friendly, Don't Fire!

September 21, 2008, 07:20 PM

I wonder if someone said: "Fill the cases with bullseye and let's see what will happen":fire: :eek: :fire: :eek: :fire: :eek: :fire: :eek:

This is tongue-in-cheek!
PLEASE, NO ONE ACTUALLY DO THIS!

Redhawk1

September 21, 2008, 07:23 PM

"Fill the cases with bullseye and let's see what will happen"

Not a smart thing to do at all....

Poprivit

September 21, 2008, 07:37 PM

In 2006, I took a real old stink bull giraffe with my S&W Performance Center 500 Mag 10.5 inch barrel. I was using Hornady 500-gr. bullets. I now have a 4-inch that I shoot 600-gr. Ballistic Supply ammo in. They also have a 700-gr. but it won't stabilize in a 4-inch. I always wear a shooting glove.

600-gr. ballistics
MV - 1250 fps
ME - 2082 ft-lb

Oh yeah, first shot in the lungs and 10 minutes later, another in the neck, right through the spine. He weighed over 2200 lb and stood 18'6". The meat fed a lot of villagers, the trophy is in my room.

Friendly, Don't Fire!

September 21, 2008, 08:58 PM

Poprivit

IMPRESSIVE! :)

Biggums

September 23, 2008, 03:19 PM

Thanks for the good info. Got both of them at home now 4 incher and a 8 3/8. The 4 incher came with the Disantis leather holster. Wow what quality the rig is! I bought a box of Hornady 300 grain red tip rounds for her ($57.00). When the weather allows we'll see what these guns will do.

Poprivit

September 23, 2008, 06:19 PM

Here's the toy and the end result. 2200 lb and 18'6" tall. Three shots. Last one in neck at 67 yards. 500-Gr. Hornady. :rolleyes:

Redhawk1

September 23, 2008, 06:22 PM

Way to go, congrats.

HB

September 23, 2008, 06:34 PM

Oh yeah, first shot in the lungs and 10 minutes later, another in the neck, right through the spine. He weighed over 2200 lb and stood 18'6". The meat fed a lot of villagers, the trophy is in my room.

I'm guessing it's not the standard shoulder mount, or you must have very high ceilings :D

Friendly, Don't Fire!

September 23, 2008, 07:03 PM

Maybe he just has the ears mounted.

Biggums

September 27, 2008, 11:37 AM

I think this 20 round shooting time at the range has been the funnest in awhile.

I took my S&W 8 3/8 and 4 incher out with a box of Hornady 300 grain red tips. Never fired a 500 up till now and was a little nervous.

I first fired the long barrel mounted hard down on sand bags. WOW when that thing goes off even the high power rifle guys shake there heads in amazement at the power, recoil, flame ball etc. One guy cam up to me and said my whole body kind of roled with waves of the recoil.

I was wearing a full glove and the only bite I felt was the trigger guard slamming against my middle finger. I took the glove off and wrapped my finger with masking tape and that helped.

Then I brought out the little 4 inch brother and everything was louder, bigger and bolder by 20% at least. I'm not trying to say 'm some tough guy or something. All I'm saying is this gun with this load is a hoot to shoot. Its kinda like hopping on a fast bike for the first time. After 20 rounds you feel like you've fired the biggest and baddest monster around and you have.

I recommend anyone who can find one of these to try it. It is flat fun to shoot and you leave the range with a smile and fellow shooters glad your done. :eek:

Friendly, Don't Fire!

September 27, 2008, 11:46 AM

Like I say, it's an "instant car-accident in a cartridge!":banghead:

Now you see why I love my 4" so much!

If you reload, try barn-burners with light bullets and ball powder (slowly working up the load, of course)!
When you fire, there is a ball of fire about the size of a small car.
After you fire, it is just like a wave of heat for about a second afterward! Just like you have a campfire on the range table just in front of you!

wyocarp

September 27, 2008, 12:02 PM

for as many owners that you find with opinions, you'll find that the ones who don't own one have twice as many opinions!!!

So very very true, and one of the most frustrating points on here.

http://i307.photobucket.com/albums/nn286/wyocarp/HPIM9325.jpg

Friendly, Don't Fire!

September 27, 2008, 12:18 PM

for as many owners that you find with opinions, you'll find that the ones who don't own one have twice as many opinions!!!

Well, if the object is to see who can "outgun" the other, then I suppose there may be opposing viewpoints - just like others will always have a bigger and better gun.

However, if the postings are in good, clean fun, as they should be, then we all get along.

There are many guns pictured on this web site that I don't own, nor will I ever, just because I can't afford them. I'm happy for those people that have them and, I'm glad to see others are having fun with them!:)

I know of someone who has probably well in excess of 50-60 guns. That person has a lot of guns, but never shoots any of them. I would rather have several that I enjoy shooting than a whole collection that I just look at.

Redhawk1

September 27, 2008, 01:17 PM

And some of use have a hole collection we shoot.. :)

Friendly, Don't Fire!

September 27, 2008, 01:30 PM

Redhawk1

Amen to that!

Biggums

September 27, 2008, 10:39 PM

I think you understand more than I the wonderful round the 500 is.

Please tell me what the small 2.5 incher is like to shoot with the heavy stuff. I always pictured some person with the survival unit in their car and using it for the first time before ever firing any gun. Must be a eye opener!

This is fun stuff!

Thanks

Dave

ragtopdog

September 28, 2008, 05:03 AM

Why not just carry a 30.06? I mean, really, some times there is just, a little to much. To each his own. Bring your tri-pod with it. And remember more is Always better.

Redhawk1

September 28, 2008, 05:09 AM

Why not just carry a 30.06? I mean, really, some times there is just, a little to much. To each his own. Bring your tri-pod with it. And remember more is Always better.

I take it you are not a handgun hunter. I use my handguns for hunting, and I don't need a tri-pod to shoot my 500 Mags.

I have taken deer, bear and hogs with my 500 Mag. All off hand shots.

A rifle is to easy to use, and not as challenging as a handgun.

That's why we use handguns, personal choice. If you don't like shooting handgun for hunting, stick to your rifles. But some of us know how to use handguns.

ragtopdog

September 28, 2008, 05:13 AM

Any one know where I can buy a 105mm howitzer with a 4"barrel.?

I'll stick to my .22's. 44's and .45's

Redhawk1

September 28, 2008, 05:28 AM

If you don't like the 500 Mag, then why post here, other than to be a troll. :rolleyes:

You don't have to come to 500 Mag threads, if you have nothing of value to add. JMHO :evil:

ragtopdog

September 28, 2008, 05:29 AM

I've shot hand guns since I was three years old. First gun I had was a Ruger "Bearcat" when I was seven. Shot .45colt when I was five. Killed over two dozen deer and wild pigs with them. There's just to seem to some that "Bring on the Cannon" Shooting is to be fun. Not about Mine is bigger than yours. I reload all the time and enjoy it. Just don't see the need for something like a hand held mortar. But that's just moho.

Redhawk1

September 28, 2008, 05:31 AM

No you are just being a troll.It is oblivious by your sarcasm.

ragtopdog

September 28, 2008, 05:55 AM

And my .45colt 300grn. make plenty of "nough' big big Wholes. Napalm works well too.

Friendly, Don't Fire!

September 28, 2008, 06:44 AM

I've shot hand guns since I was three years old. First gun I had was a Ruger "Bearcat" when I was seven. Shot .45colt when I was five. Killed over two dozen deer and wild pigs with them. There's just to seem to some that "Bring on the Cannon" Shooting is to be fun. Not about Mine is bigger than yours. I reload all the time and enjoy it. Just don't see the need for something like a hand held mortar. But that's just moho.ragdogtop, Seeing that you are so proficient with handguns, you would really enjoy having (or even shooting) a 500 Magnum. I would like to be there when you do.

Somehow, this reminds me of a BIG TALKER at the range some years ago when a guy brought in his new big-bore magnum rifle.

While the rifle was on the bench another guy there was shooting his mouth off telling everyone else how to shoot it, how to properly hold it, how not to hold it, it's a gun for big people, you could get hurt if you don't hold it just the right way, be careful - you might get hurt, blah, blah, blah.

Essentially, this guy thought he was the GREAT AUTHORITY of big bore magnum rifles.:rolleyes:

What the guy REALLY WANTED was for the owner to let him take a shot.

After all the talk from this guy, the owner finally did let him take a shot and the poor fellow broke his collar bone.:cuss:

One good thing - at least the guy didn't drop the rifle on the ground!:)

For some strange reason, no more BIG TALK from Mr. know-it-all.:cool:

Redhawk1

September 28, 2008, 07:11 AM

And my .45colt 300grn. make plenty of "nough' big big Wholes. Napalm works well too.

I can see a person who has never shot a gun in their life shooting that thing.

They just may end up with a gun impaled into their face.:eek:

Seeing how much of a cannon the 4" is, I couldn't even imagine shooting the 2"!

wyocarp

September 28, 2008, 11:39 AM

Actually, I prefer shooting the 2" over the 4" .500. My favorite is the 7.5" without a scope. It shoots the hot loads better than any of the others in my opinion. Adding the scope seems to make it come straight back. I'm currently looking for more of the performance center 7.5" in the old barrel style.

wyocarp

September 28, 2008, 11:52 AM

I know of someone who has probably well in excess of 50-60 guns. That person has a lot of guns, but never shoots any of them. I would rather have several that I enjoy shooting than a whole collection that I just look at.

Well inspector, I'm in that category. And I have to say that not all of my guns get equal time having lead going their barrels. Some very seldom leave the safe. Then again, those are not my "go to" guns. Yesterday was a typical day though.

I carried five different guns throughout the day; an airlite in .357, two .380's in ankle holsters, a Glock 20, and a Desert Eagle in .50 AE. I only shot around 600 rounds, it was a slow day because one of the ak's broke and I gave my son the one I was shooting.

So, some of us that have "well in excess of 50-60 guns" do shoot a lot even though it isn't every gun every day or week.

So that I stay with the topic of this thread, we had a lot of guns on us, but one gun I didn't leave home without was my 7.5" .500. It nearly always travels beside my seat.

wyocarp

September 28, 2008, 11:57 AM

Just don't see the need for something like a hand held mortar.

The neat thing about the .500 is that it can be loaded to be a very mild shooter, to a cannon that will make anything or anyone take notice. Since most probably don't get to where they are casting and reloading for it, they never know.

JCMAG

September 28, 2008, 12:50 PM

You killed Geofrey :(

Heheheheh.

Screw being a toys'r'us kid, when I grow up I want a model 500 :D

Redhawk1

September 28, 2008, 01:08 PM

The 8 3/8 inch S&W 500 mag recoil in my opinion, is not worse or better than my 4 inch 500 with a end cap, "no compensator". I did not notice any read difference, except more flash.

I have shot 275 to 700 gr. bullets in my 4 inch S&W 500 Mag and they were manageable, even the 700 gr. at 1200 fps. Yes there is a lot of recoil with the 700 gr . at 1200 fps, but once you get accustom to the recoil, it is manageable.

The people that bad mouth the 500 Mag are usually the ones that have never shot one.

Big Boomer

September 28, 2008, 01:18 PM

I just bring mine to make the guys at the rifle range with their 300 uber mags jealous hehe

coop4u2c

September 29, 2008, 04:27 PM

Love my full size! Those rounds were quite accurate at 50 with iron sights. The recoil has never been an issue with me but I haven't shot a 4". My favorite loads are the 500gr. soft points from www.BallisticSupply.com.

EddieCoyle

September 29, 2008, 11:07 PM

I have 4 X-frames: A 4" and 8" .500, and a 5" and 8" .460. IMO, the 5" .460 has the best feel and balance.

Like someone else said, you can load these anywhere from pleasant to punishing. I posted a bunch of my favorite loads on my website:

http://www.vintagepistols.com/500_and_460_load_data.html

I have about 5000 rounds through the 500's and half that many through the .460.

Redhawk1

September 30, 2008, 06:42 AM

EddieCoyle, I am glad to see someone else that loves there X-frames as much as I do.

I have around the same round count in my 500 Mags as you do. I am also a fan of the S&W 460 Mag. I had a 10.5 inch PC model a 8 3/8 inch a 5 inch and two of the 7.5 inch PC models. I have sold all but one of the S&W 7.5 PC models. I have a few buddies that now own my S&W 460 Mags.

I have to laugh when I see post of people that say, that someone is going to bury the front sight into there fore head. The only way that will happen is, if someone is an inexperienced shooter, and they would do the same thing with a 454 Casull.

The X-frames are not for the beginner or inexperienced handgun shooters.

tmorg

September 30, 2008, 09:59 PM

I've had mine about two years,put around 100 rounds through it.
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e199/tmorg/5-1.jpg
http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e199/tmorg/5-6.jpg

Friendly, Don't Fire!

October 1, 2008, 06:27 AM

What scope mount did you use? When I purchased my 500, I hunted (sic) high and low for a mount and could not find one. I ended up changing the rear sight to a Millett Target blade.

I really wanted to scope it, however mine is the 4" and I was wondering if gases would blow up into the front lens, being so close to, or directly over the front muzzle.

tmorg

October 1, 2008, 02:24 PM

Inspector, It is a jack weigand scope mount and rings, X frame
http://www.jackweigand.com/sswhpmnts.html

I am very happy with them,seams to hold up well with the heavy recoil.

Redhawk1

October 1, 2008, 02:33 PM

I have the Weigand scope mount, I had it on my 4 inch S&W 500 Mag, with a red-dot. Worked great.
I just decided I liked the open sights on the 4 inch better. So I have the Weigand scope mount sitting in my gun safe.

Friendly, Don't Fire!

October 1, 2008, 03:10 PM

I was toying with the idea of that with a Leupold straight 4 power. However, I already have the S&W Gene Desantis holster and already put a Millett back Target sight on it, and after reading Redhawk1's response, I guess I'll just be happy with what I have.

I'm certain I could drop any deer or black bear within 50 yards offhand (unless, of course, it is running) and out to about 100 yards if I have the option to rest my gun on a branch.

So, rather than having $200 worth of holster and Millett Sight stored away plus about $500-$600 for the setup I would want, I think I'll just put that money towards gas and heating oil:uhoh:.

Thanks again!

deanadell

October 1, 2008, 05:03 PM

Biggums,

Glad you liked it.

I bought mine in 2004. I've probably put about 1000 rounds through it. Takes hours to get the stupid grin off my face every time I take it to the range.

Have yet to have an opportunity to take a deer with it though. Maybe this year

Friendly, Don't Fire!

October 2, 2008, 06:36 AM

deanadell

Where did you sneak in? I don't recall seeing your name in this thread!:confused:

Biggums

October 2, 2008, 08:46 AM

Are you Dr. Deanadell? Anyway yes I am having fun with my 500 and plan on packing it for deer this year.

I was amazed to price the difference between the Hornady 500 compared to the Hornady 460 ammo. The red tips run $57.95 for 20 for the 500 and the same round for the 460 is $24.95. Must be a "lets pump the price for the big gun mentallity" from Hornandy as the rounds are close in mass, weight etc.

I starting gain an interest in a good used 460 on Gun Broker. The wifes worried about me!:eek:

tinygnat219

October 2, 2008, 09:04 AM

Good stuff here folks. As someone who is thinking about getting back into the Big Bore series, I have decided that I want the following:

.44 Magnum Revolver, preferably a Ruger Redhawk, or S&W Mountain Gun.
.S&W .460 Revolver, as this seems incredibly versatile with the ability to shoot 3 cartridges out of it.

Not sure yet about the .500 Magnum. That might be a tad too much handgun. Of course, if there's talk about banning it. I will pick one up tomorrow.

Redhawk1

October 2, 2008, 09:05 AM

If you own a 460 or 500 Mag, reloading is the only way to go.

Action_Can_Do

October 2, 2008, 09:41 AM

I bought my 500 PC before I started reloading. The 500 was one of the reasons I started reloading.

Action_Can_Do

October 2, 2008, 09:43 AM

Hey Redhawk1.
How many big boomers do you have? As a fellow collector of handcannons, I'd love to see your collection.

Evyl Robot

October 2, 2008, 02:26 PM

S&W 500---any owners with opinions?

The better question might be "any owners WITHOUT opinions?"

I've never heard anyone say, "Yeah. I got a .500. Issalright, I suppose..."

--Michael

Biggums

October 2, 2008, 06:57 PM

Life is short. I think every handgun lover should do themselve a favor and own one if at all possible!:what:

Friendly, Don't Fire!

October 2, 2008, 07:00 PM

I agree, however, I know some people who couldn't shoot one without somehow hurting themselves.:what:

Molasses

October 2, 2008, 11:06 PM

I've never heard anyone say, "Yeah. I got a .500. Issalright, I suppose..."

http://i137.photobucket.com/albums/q201/Molasses_photos/Toys/MVC-046F.jpg
Yeah, I got a .500 (and a couple of .45-70s, a .460, .50 AE, .45 Win Mag and assorted stuff for launching lesser calibers cluttering up the place). Issalright I suppose. :evil:

Redhawk1

October 3, 2008, 07:29 AM

Hey Redhawk1.
How many big boomers do you have? As a fellow collector of handcannons, I'd love to see your collection.

Got a good deal on this baby last night. I hope its in good shape. The reason I want one is the ammo is 1/2 the price of my 500. I will reload anyway so no big deal but that was a good excuse to the wifey.:D

Can anyone tell me about the 460? Never fired one but been shooting the 500 lately.

Redhawk1

October 5, 2008, 06:18 PM

I have been shooting the 460 Mag for a while know, I have a few great loads that I use in mine. 240 XTP's 260 Nosler Partitions and 300 gr. hard cast.
My most used load is the 300 gr. hard cast, and it is a tack driver. I can hit a 4 inch clay target consistently at 150 yards with my S&W 460 Mag with the 300 gr. hard cast bullets.

I don't like using them 200 gr, bullets in my S&W 460 Mag, I am also working with a 370 gr. load.

The S&W 460 is a great round also.

Action_Can_Do , nice collection.

doglb

October 8, 2008, 04:09 PM

I recently traded for a S&W .500 with 4" barrel. Oh my God!!
I love this gun.

Curious if anyone has any pics of a red dot/scope mounted on a 4"?
Kind of thinking of doing so but am not sure if it would look right.

Otherwise it is an awesome weapon, especially when I bring it to the indoor range-always end up with am audience!!:D:D

Friendly, Don't Fire!

October 8, 2008, 05:05 PM

Now you see WHY I LOVE mine so much.:cool:

Redhawk1

October 8, 2008, 05:34 PM

doglb go here to see a 4 inch with a red dot.
http://50caliberforum.proboards99.com/index.cgi?board=50handgunimagery&action=display&thread=895

doglb

October 8, 2008, 05:45 PM

Thank you for the link, I must say that the 4" doesnt look to bad with a red dot.

General Geoff

October 10, 2008, 08:11 PM

he is currently working on a 375 H&H pistol barrel for me also.

Your wrists must love you. :D

Bendutro

October 10, 2008, 11:33 PM

It's not the wrist, it's the web between your thumb and index finger. :-)

Heavy bullets at 900-1400 fps are milder than the sub 450gr slugs launched at 1400-2000fps.

Rock and roll!

Redhawk1

October 11, 2008, 07:48 AM

Actually if you have the proper grip and muzzle brake, it is not hard on the wrist or hand.

RacingJake

October 21, 2008, 09:43 AM

I shoot the sub nose 500 and love it.

That little 2.75 sure can kick :evil:

Redhawk1

October 21, 2008, 10:31 PM

Got my 375 H&H pistil barrel back from Gary Reeder and did some shooting. The barrel is a tack driver and the recoil is very manageable with full house 375 H&H loads.

AgentOrange

February 6, 2009, 12:36 PM

"The people that bad mouth the 500 Mag are usually the ones that have never shot one."

redhawk1

the people who generally bad mouth the 500 are the people not who havent shot one, but the people WHO CANT AFFORD ONE.

just my opinion

Friendly, Don't Fire!

February 6, 2009, 03:06 PM

I paid about $1,000 and some change for my 4" model. The MSRP is $1,250 -- the last time I looked on the S&W site. I'm sure prices have gone up to near that now that everyone and their relatives are buying guns galore.

The way I look at it, it will surely last the rest of my life and it can then be a "family heirloom."

Duke of Doubt

February 6, 2009, 03:17 PM

The only man I've known who actually owned some of these died recently.

There wasn't any connection.

But he did manage to knock a filling loose from the concussion of that thing.

b00ch

February 6, 2009, 04:11 PM

I saw this and copied it exact.
http://www.outdoorlife.com/articles/gear/2007/09/ultimate-hunting-gun

92361

love it. It is a bad mother...

Different loads kick harder than others. Expensive to shoot, but sweet.
I havent had a chance to kill a deer with it yet b/c i haven't had a chance to sight it in. I am new to scopes and only recently learned why i was having problems sighting it in. parallax is a bitch. Also choosing a round to set it with is a daunting task b/c there are so many great loads 4 it.

Love it from the christmas i got it on.

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